The Tulane football team has some depth at defensive line and it will be tested now that starting nose tackle Chris Asumnu broke his hand in Monday morning’s practice. He was hit in the hand by a helmet and underwent surgery to repair the fracture Monday afternoon.

“Broken hand, six screws put in,” Toledo said. “Usually it’s about a week (players with that injury are out). When he can start making a fist he’ll be back. But usually it’s about five to seven days.”

Corey Redwine and Kenny Welcome are battling behind Asumnu at tackle but Cedric Wilson could move over from his three technique spot if needed, defensive coordinator Steve Stanard said.

In other medical news, Renaldo Thomas continues to be evaluated by doctors after passing out in practice last week. He went down while trying to grab a drink of water and was swiftly transported to a hospital where he stayed overnight. He has not been able to practice and will not return until he is medically cleared and the staff understands what the reason for the loss of consciousness was.

“He had a stress test yesterday and he has another one coming tomorrow,” Toledo said. “That (first stress test) went well. They don’t know if it’s a muscle cramping that kind of thing. It’s not his heart from what I can tell, but they are running tests. They are going to be very cautious and rightfully so.”

Wide Receiver Brandon LeBeau did not participate in most drills on Tuesday morning because of a tightened hamstring.

“He’s a heck of a player and he’s got to play so we have to be careful because it’s ready to go in other words,” Toledo said.